I started in marquetry quite by accident in 1983, while trying to find something to occupy my time after retirement. I was making cribbage boards and I put a design on one.
My barber asked to see it and when I showed it to him, a customer in his shop said, "Oh, marquetry". My reply was, "Is that what it is?"
Later, he introduced me to his father, Cliff Baxter, who invited me and two others over for a demonstration at his home where the fever caught me immediately.
Cliff taught me a little bit about how to do marquetry but most of what I have learned comes from doing it, making mistakes and watching others.
I have made over 200 pictures, each recorded with a serial number, plus over 150 more

 small demonstration pictures and small box tops.
I enjoy introducing marquetry into people's lives. One way I do this is through donating marquetry projects to schools and

other organizations. In 2004, I donated 12 to 15 marquetry boxes with marquetry on the lids for various causes. I am a charter member of the Columbia River Chapter. A few years ago, Cliff Baxter "railroaded" me into becoming the Chapter President, a position from which I have been unable to extricate myself from.
 I attempt to teach people how to do marquetry the way I do, but emphasize that I feel there is no one correct way to do it.
The end result is what counts, not the method in which you used to get there. Each person should work the way that is easiest for them.
In 1991, I retired from the Chemical Products Division of Crown Zellerbach/James River Paper Company, as the Head Chemical Process Technician.
In 1991, I retired from the Chemical Products Division of Crown Zellerbach/James River Paper Company, as the Head Chemical Process Technician.

My hobby before marquetry was being a Ham Radio operator. I now do mostly marquetry, though, as well as other miscellaneous wood projects including building frames and small jewelry boxes.